Here, cyclist Ayesha McGowan discusses how her sport can make space for more women and people of color.
After honing hercycling skillsduring seven years of commuting by bike, McGowan began her racing career in 2014.
When you first started racing, what did representation look like in cycling?
It was very evident early on that road racing was not diverse.
Even the access to equipment is different.
That was as much attention as they would spend on making things for women.
What obstacles have you encountered as a Black woman in cycling?
I dont see that happening with everybody, and its pretty frustrating.
These are microaggressions that are not as evident to people who have not experienced them.
Also, as a woman, theres such a big gap in equity and parity.
Theres so much that needs to be fixed, like equal racing distances and equal opportunities for racing.
Youll go to a race, and therell be six or seven fields for men.
If youre lucky, therell be one or two for women in the amateur rank.
Whats your advice for other women and women of color in the sport?
In the beginning, bike racing can be really challenging.
There are mental, physical, financial, and other kinds of barriers that can get in the way.
But if its something you want to do, be creative and figure out how to do it.
Say yes to opportunities, even if theyre scary.
What can the rest of the cycling community do to make the sport more inclusive?
Sign the Strive for More pledgefrom Strava.
Supporting initiatives like that and being an active part of your community can go a long way.
This keeps the sport exclusive.
Why is representation so important in sports?
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
This article was originally published onOct.
